Foss. Nay, prithee, dearee, judge not rashly. My character is establish'd in the world. There lives not a more sober, chaste, and virtuous person than doctor Fossile.

Town. Then why this disguise?

Foss, Since it must come out; ha, ha, ha, only a frolick on my wedding day between Hugh and I. We had a mind to exhibit a little mummery.

Clink. What joy arises in my soul to see my uncle in a dramatick character! Since your humour lead you to the drama, uncle, why would you not consult a relative muse in your own family? I have always used you as my physician; and why should not you use me as your poet?

Foss, Prithee, dear, leave me a moment. This is a scandal to my gravity. I'll be with you, as my self, immediately.

[Exeunt omnes, except Fossile and Hugh. As they are changing habits, Fossile says,

As a mark of my confidence in thee, I leave thee guardian of my house while I go my rounds. Let none in but patients; wan sickly fellows, no person in the least degree of bodily strength.

Hugh. Worthy doctor, you may rely upon my honour.
Exit Fos.
I have betray'd my mistress. My conscience flies in my face, and I can ease it noway but by betraying my master.
Knocking at the door.

This is not the doctor; but he is dress'd like him, and that shall be my excuse.
[He lets Plotwell in, Townley meets him, they embrace.

Town. Hugh, go, wait at the door.
[Exit Hugh.